Pets and Livestock

Pets & Livestock

The Georgia Department of Agriculture's (GDA) Companion Animal/Equine program licenses and regulates the pet and equine industry in Georgia. We ensure that animals in our licensed establishments are treated humanely and have acceptable standards of care. 

Complaints

The Georgia Department of Agriculture has compliance authority over our licensed facilities. If you have information regarding violations or concerning GDA licensed facilities, you can log a complaint by submitting a report.

 

The primary responsibility for the control of rabies in Georgia resides with the County Boards of Health.

Programs in this area

Pets

Dealers in pets, animal shelters

Horses / Equine

Equine stables

Livestock

Cattle, swine, and other livestock

Poultry

Poultry dealers and producers

Chronic Wasting Disease was confirmed in a wild deer in Lanier County, Georgia, in January 2025. CWD is a prion disease affecting populations of deer, elk, and moose. More information on CWD is available in our pamphlet.

Buying Pets from the Internet

Warning

Internet pet scams aim to deceive unsuspecting pet lovers. These scams offer a pet for little or no cost but will request a hefty shipping deposit or other "unforeseen" expenses during the process.

Many of these criminals operate overseas. Finding and prosecuting them could be extremely difficult; maybe impossible. Research the seller thoroughly. Only purchase from sellers you can validate.

Use our License Search tool to see pet dealers, kennel operators (groomers, trainers, boarders), animal rescues, humane societies, and local government animal shelters that hold a valid license with the Georgia Department of Agriculture.

Note:  Individuals and businesses selling animals over the internet may be required to hold a U.S.D.A. license.